The Study of Design Theory and Methodology in Mechanical Engineering: A Commentary

Abstract

Abstract Our aim in this paper is to examine the study of design theory and methodology (DTM) in the field of mechanical engineering design and to assess its impact. Rather than review the work of a growing number of individual researchers essential research themes have been distilled by an analysis of the conference papers in the area and through a survey of the research and practicing community. On the basis of the survey some commonly understood goals and products of the DTM research community are identified. We seek to understand the extent to which the goals of the research community been met and whether the products have benefited the customers. To maintain continuity and some perspective this commentary builds upon past reviews.